2. amps-preamps
  3. 1018725328

What tubes to use for Audio Research SP-9 MkIII?

I have never opened the case on my AR SP-9 MkIII preamp. I called the guy who sold it to me and he says that it has Sovet6922 or called 6DJ8. A pair of Simens old new stock tubes 6922 made in Germany are for sale for $130 bucks...is the price of the Siemens tubes a good deal? Will the change in tubes make a significant improvement? I've never opened the case...how many tubes will I need? The AR users manual suggests leaving the preamp on all the time....how long will tubes last if the unit is always left on? Thanks,...Mitch
128x128mitch4t

Showing 1 response by glenno

glenno
10 posts
 
Hello,
I've had my MkIII for about 5 years and have tried Telefunken,Mullard,Amperex,etc. I finally called ARC and got some of their stock tubes for the preamp, the Sovtek 6922. I use them with their tube dampers and to me the preamp has never sounded better. I'd suggest that you call ARC, tell them what equipment you have, the type of sound you're looking for, and they'll be able to help you. New tubes from them are about $25-$30. Another source for tubes and info is Upscale Audio.
Good listening.
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